A dentist can order partial dentures from a dental laboratory for their patients. The technicians at Mabel Dental create acrylic, clear, and metal partials for our Smile Partners. Here is more information about what technology dental labs use to make partial dentures:
Digital Scanner Systems
To fabricate the partial dentures, dental labs require a physical or digital impression of the patient’s teeth. Dentists can use an intraoral scanner to take a digital impression. Some labs utilize digital scanner systems to allow dentists to send STL scans directly from their scanners. This can help reduce patient wait time, as the dentist does not have to mail the physical impression. This also allows dentists and technicians to communicate more efficiently, as having the digital files and scans available right away allows the lab to follow up with any clarifying questions.
At Mabel Dental, dentists can also upload digital file types directly to our website on the File Upload page. Dentists can upload the raw files without converting them. Having access to digital files allows us to use a digital workflow at our office. Dentists can send us digital case files until 4 p.m. EST.
Digital Models and 3D Printing
A dental laboratory can use computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) technology to design and create 3D digital models of the patient’s mouth. Technicians upload digital files or scans to the CAD system to create an accurate, customized digital model. This allows technicians to digitally check the fit of the partial with the patient’s bite. CAD can also be used to design prosthetic devices.
A lab may also use 3D printing to create frames for partial dentures. Mabel Dental utilizes 3D printing to fabricate titanium partial dentures. These frames are lighter and offer high-quality biocompatibility.
Lasers
Several types of partials utilize a metal framework. At Mabel Dental, we avoid using nickel and beryllium for our metal partial frames. All of our metal frames use chrome cobalt alloy. Partial dentures we offer include partials with SLM or selective laser melting and frames. Dental laboratories use lasers for metal fabrication and repair for partial dentures.
Selective Laser Melting
Selective laser melting is a process dental laboratories use to create metal SLM frameworks. During the SLM process, the technicians use a laser to melt and fuse layers of a powdered metal together. After the frame is created, the technician checks the frame against the original model to test the fit. This method helps create strong partials with an improved fit and functionality. A study conducted in association with McGill University found that SLM frames allowed for greater stability and reduced tissue irritation.
Laser Welding
Laser welding is a process that joins metals without soldering them together. A dental laboratory is able to utilize laser welding to repair partial dentures that are made out of metal and plastic. This method protects the base and teeth of the device while repairing cracks. The technician then applies polymer to bond the material together.
Molds
Technicians at a dental laboratory create physical molds to use when fabricating flexible, acrylic, and metal partials. Flexible partials utilize thermoplastic nylon to allow the prosthetic to blend in with the patient’s mouth and offer additional comfort to the patient. An acrylic partial or flipper has an all-acrylic base and is able to be used by a patient to maintain the position of their teeth during a complex case planning period.
Having a physical mold allows the technician to use casting methods to create partials. The technician sculpts recreations of missing teeth. They then use the sculpture to form the mold for the prosthetic. To create a metal frame, alloy is poured into the mold.
When forming flexible partials, technicians melt plastic beads that match the patient’s preferred gum color. They then pour the plastic into the mold to shape the partial. To create acrylic partials, the technicians use a mold to lay the base correctly.
At Mabel Dental, we offer four different colors for the partial denture bases to match the base to the patient’s gums. These colors are light, standard, light/dark, and dark pink. We also offer thermoplastic resin partial dentures at our lab. These partials are tooth-colored and do not use metal frames, offering an alternative for patients with metal allergies.
Order Partial Dentures from Dental Labs
Our dental laboratory fabricates both fixed and removable dental appliances. This includes dentures, implant overdentures, and mouthguards. Mabel Dental also creates tooth-colored and clear clasps for partial dentures. Our technicians also create models for other dental labs and dentists to use. Most of our partials have an eight-day turnaround time. We offer a courier system in some areas of Ohio that dentists are able to use to send us physical impressions. To become one of our Smile Partners, we invite you to email or call us today.
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